Technical Designer

At Theory, we create clothes that matter that empower and improve the way we live through exceptional fit, fabric, and style. In 1997, Theory was founded in New York on the simple idea that stretch fabrics in tailored clothing could change how we dress and live. Two decades later, we continue to perfect our offering of elevated wardrobe essentials for the ambitious, urban man and woman. From sourcing materials from the best mills in the world, to the innovation and craftsmanship at our atelier in New York's Meatpacking District, the integrity of our process is just as important as our final product.

In 2004, Theory was acquired by Fast Retailing, spurring the international expansion of the brand. Operating 440 stores worldwide, today Theory is a New York brand with a global mindset. Our customers dream big, achieve goals, and aim for perfection. So do we, and so do our clothes.

As a Technical Designer you will be the central point of accountability for the development cycle from design sketch hand-off through Proto creation, SMS refinement to hand off to production team. This role requires a highly organized processional who thrives in a fast-paced environment and has both technical design expertise and sample room coordination experience.

You will work closely with design, product development, pattern maker, in- house sample-making team, and overseas factories to ensure fit, sewing construction, and sample quality aligned with Theory standard.

Responsibilities:

• Own and manage the development process from initial sketch pass-off to proto sample approval and Salesman samples for Global line opening.
• Act as primary liaison between Merchandise, Design, Product Development, Fabric, Pattern makers, and in house sample room throughout development stage.
• Own and coordinate for sample room planning and execution, including pattern making, cutting, and sewing for development needs such as wear testing, fabric testing, Proto development and SMS for presentation.
• Lead development fittings across all categories: Jacket, Outerwear, Pant, Woven Tops and C&S.
• Identify fit and construction issues; provide precise technical solutions.
• Create, revise, and maintain comprehensive and accurate tech packs.
• Clearly document fitting comments with actionable pattern amendment instruction.
• Communicate directly with overseas suppliers to troubleshoot pattern corrections and construction related issues.
• Maintain and update development on PLM system, ensuring real-time visibility of sample progress, fit approvals and milestone tracking.
• Provide hands-on leadership and training to junior team member throughout the product development cycle.
• Support Tech Design Director in all relevant and related tasks

Qualifications:

• 5 years of technical design experience with strong development background across all major categories (Jacket, Outerwear, pant, woven top, and C&S)
• Proven experience in sample room coordination or domestic production management.
• Highly proficient and comfortable writing detailed tech packs including:

-Construction call outs

-Spec sheets

-Pattern amendment instruction

-Visual/physical mock up and technical sketches

• Strong ability to communicate technical related issues clearly to overseas supplier to ensure accurate pattern and fit correction.
• Deep understanding of garment construction and pattern.
• Excellent organizational skills and ability to work with cross-functional team and manage multiple milestones simultaneously.
• Comfortable working hands-on in house sample making teams.
• Solid working knowledge of PLM, Adobe Illustrator, MS offices: Outlook, Excel and Word

Salary: $80,000 to 90,000*

*The offered salary or salary range is based on several factors, including, but not limited to, overall experience, relevant experience, education level, certifications, applicable skills and expertise, and location of the position.

Equal Opportunity Statement:

As an Equal Opportunity Employer, Theory LLC does not discriminate against applicants or employees because of race, color, creed, religion, sex, national origin, veteran status, disability, age, citizenship, marital or domestic/civil partnership status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression or because of any other status or condition protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.

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